Our verdict
Hailed by a blogger as something that "hits the sweet spot" in many respects, the Trailhead from Lems wears its multi-faceted utility up its sleeve. Indeed, many are as surprised by its hiking prowess as they are impressed with its effectiveness for other things, like skateboarding and cycling. Longevity is bonkers in this kick, too, which translates to years of uber-comfy adventures from the city to the trail.
Pros
- Top-shelf toughness
- Versatile performance
- Cranked-up comfort
- With no break-in period and fit issues, the
- Above-average traction
- Stays unstinky for longer
- Casually attractive
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Narrower than most Lems shoes
- With break-in
- Its minimal drop can alienate the foot
Who should buy the Lems Trailhead
A sense of connectedness is what the Lems Trailhead brings to the table. Add it to your to-buy list if:
- You want a cushy pair that lets you moderately feel the terrain underfoot.
- Hiking shoes that deliver in a variety of outdoor activities are what you're after.
- Your urban explorations lead to full-blown backcountry escapades or vice-versa.
Who should not buy it
With no break-in period and fit issues, the Lems Mesa is a great pick over the Trailhead. And if a just-right heel-to-toe drop is what you prefer in footwear, check out the Trail 2650 from Danner.
Something that won't tap out too soon
Durability is stellar in the Lems Trailhead, and dozens of hikers are all for it. "The durability of these seems really solid," says a professional reviewer. An experienced trail-goer says that it's "built to last and can take all sorts of abuse!" "The outsole is solid and long-lasting," says yet another commenter.
The Lems Trailhead's incredible versatility
Based on many reviews, this urban hiking shoe is a doozy jack of all trades. A critic says that it's "awesome for walking, hiking, racquetball, and skateboarding." A non-professional reviewer doubles down on this, saying, "I wear them for everything," including cycling, walking the dog, and hiking.
Keeps odor at bay
While it has a break-in period of about a couple of days, the Lems Trailhead rivals many of its competitors when it comes to comfort. A tester says that his feet "feel so fresh and full of energy" in this kick. Another trail-goer says that the suppleness of this shoe is "on another level."
Responsive hikes in the Trailhead
Despite having a rather thick sole unit, the Trailhead delivers a close-to-the-ground experience. An expert says that it'll make "you feel like you have a really good connection with the earth." "The feeling on off-road terrain is incredible," says another.
It might subvert your expectations
There are those who find the Trailhead a bit tighter compared with other hiking shoes and boots from Lems. It's "far narrower than I was led to believe," says a disappointed adventurer. Another one says, "some people may like the narrower fit, but not the average Lems customer."
Track spikes and XC
The Trailhead's 4-mm drop is viewed by a gear pundit as something that requires an adjustment period. He goes on to say that people who aren't used to such kicks might get soreness around the Achilles heel at first.
Who should buy the Lems Trailhead
Its grip level is one for the books, particularly on the trail. A footwear maven says that the Trailhead provides "great traction on dirt and rocks."
Keeps odor at bay
It's been reported that the quick-drying Lems Trailhead is quite odor-preventive. "No matter how often I wear them, they NEVER SMELL BAD," says a seasoned backcountry explorer.
Who should not buy it
The Lems Trailhead is a real head-turner (no pun intended). Supporting this statement are the remarks "they have the look and design of a high-end casual shoe" and "best-looking shoes you can buy! Hands down."
